South African cruise season set to inject R120m into Nelson Mandela Bay economy

The arrival of Mein Schiff 4 in Port Elizabeth has officially opened the 2025/26 cruise season, signalling a strong start for South Africa’s expanding cruise tourism sector. 

The vessel’s arrival at the weekend marked the beginning of the longest cruise season on record for the Eastern Cape, with 25 confirmed ship calls and nine overnight stays scheduled through July 2026. 

More than 40,000 passengers are expected to disembark in the city over the next nine months, boosting local spending, job creation and small business activity, contributing R120 million to the Nelson Mandela Bay economy.

Operated by Germany’s TUI Cruises, the 293-metre Mein Schiff 4 carries around 2,700 passengers and 1,000 crew, and is currently sailing a repositioning around Africa for the Middle East.

Like MSC Euribia, which recently called in Durban on her way to Dubai, Mein Schiff 4 cannot sail through the Suez Canal and Red Sea due to ongoing regional security concerns, however unlike MSC, TUI Cruises has opted to sail the route as a passenger voyage.

The 40-night voyage from Palma De Malorca to Dubai will make several calls along Africa’s east coast before sailing across the Indian Ocean. Its arrival demonstrates continued operator confidence in the city’s cruise infrastructure and tourism appeal.

Nelson Mandela Bay Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe described the occasion as a proud milestone that reaffirms the city’s growing status as a preferred global cruise destination. 

“Every vessel that docks at our port brings new opportunities for our residents and local businesses. The cruise industry contributes millions into our economy each season through visitor spending, local procurement, and job creation,” she said. 

According to Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), last season’s 20 cruise ship calls brought about 50,000 visitors to Nelson Mandela Bay, generating an estimated R100 million in spending. 

The extended 2025/26 season, and the inclusion of nine overnight stops are expected to push this year’s total to R120 million. 

Visitor spending typically includes guided tours, wildlife safaris, township experiences, dining, and local crafts, while port fees and supply procurement provide further benefit to local businesses.

Nelson Mandela Bay Ports Manager Pamela Yoyo said the 2025/26 season promises to further elevate the city’s standing as a must-visit global destination. 

“Beyond the substantial economic impact, this is a valuable opportunity to showcase the city’s vibrant culture and renowned hospitality to the world,” she said. “We are committed to creating memorable experiences for our guests and driving sustainable economic growth through strategic partnerships.”

Yoyo added that TNPA continues to invest in infrastructure upgrades to accommodate larger vessels and ensure efficient turnarounds. “TNPA remains dedicated to supporting the city’s tourism initiatives through ongoing investment in port infrastructure, availability of marine resources, and collaborative efforts with key stakeholders,” she said.

South Africa’s Department of Tourism has identified cruise tourism as a high-growth sector, with national cruise passenger spending projected to exceed R2 billion in 2025/26, the bulk of which is spent in the Western Cape, with Cape Town as the country primary cruise homeport.